2009 Chevrolet Traverse

2008 Chicago Auto Show
2009 Chevrolet Traverse

2008 Chicago Auto Show
2009 Chevrolet Traverse

With the word "minivan" equivalent to a marketing millstone these days, Chevrolet is due to replace its Uplander people mover with a version of the Buick Enclave/GMC Acadia/Saturn Outlook midsize SUV for 2009. Uplander's departure will leave the vast GM fleet with a grand total of zero minivans.

Bearing the name Traverse, Chevy's new SUV will seat up to eight, whereas the Uplander can accommodate only seven. Like its GM stablemates, Traverse is a conventional four-door wagon offering front- or all-wheel drive and only one powertrain: a 3.6-liter V6 and six-speed automatic transmission shared with its siblings. The engine is expected to produce 281 horsepower with single exhaust, 286 with dual exhaust. In 2008 models, it's rated at 275 horsepower.

Distinguishing Traverse from its cousins will be Chevy's signature crossbar grille and some minor revisions to the front fenders and fascia. LS, LT, and LTZ trim levels are expected along with a choice of 17-, 18-, or 20-inch wheels. Front side airbags, curtain side airbags covering all three seating rows, ABS, and GM's StabiliTrak antiskid system and OnStar assistance system will be offered, as will XM Satellite Radio, remote engine start, rear obstacle detection, rearview camera, DVD entertainment, and a navigation system. Also available is a power liftgate, heated and cooled front seats, and second-row captain chairs to replace a 60/40 split-bench seat.

Though pricing wasn't announced, Traverse is expected to be the least expensive of the corporate quartet, which currently bottoms out at the Saturn Outlook's $27,605. Traverse is due to go on sale in the fall of 2008 as an '09 model.

2008 Chicago Auto Show